Let's cut through the noise: you don't need to drop a thousand bucks to get a solid shotgun. Whether you're setting up home defense, heading out for small game, or just want to knock around some clays on the weekend, there are plenty of reliable options that won't leave your wallet crying.
We've been in this game since 1998, and we've seen every budget shotgun that's come down the pike. Some are absolute gems. Others? Well, let's just say they're better used as boat anchors. Here's our rundown of the best shotguns under $300 that actually get the job done.
1. Mossberg Maverick 88: The King of Budget Pumps
If there's one shotgun that defines "bang for your buck," it's the Maverick 88. Think of it as the working man's Mossberg 500, because that's exactly what it is. Mossberg makes these in the same factory as the 500, using a lot of the same parts and quality control standards.
The beauty of the Maverick 88 is its compatibility with most Mossberg 500 accessories. Want to swap stocks? Add a side saddle? No problem. You're getting into the Mossberg ecosystem without paying Mossberg prices. It's a 12-gauge pump that cycles smooth, eats any ammo you feed it, and keeps running when cheaper options start having issues.
For around $200-$250, you're getting a shotgun that'll last decades. We've got customers who've put thousands of rounds through theirs without a hiccup. Check out our selection of pump-action shotguns to see current availability.
Best for: First-time shotgun buyers, home defense, and anyone who wants reliable performance without the premium price tag.
2. Stevens 320: The Smooth Operator
The Stevens 320 is basically a Winchester 1300 clone, and that's a very good thing. Winchester built the 1300 with one of the smoothest pump actions ever designed, and Stevens kept that DNA intact.
What sets the 320 apart is how effortless it feels to rack. Some budget pumps feel like you're wrestling a crowbar. The 320? It's like butter. The 18.5-inch security model is perfect for home defense setups, while the field version (more on that later) gives you a longer barrel for hunting or clays.
At under $200 in most cases, it's hard to beat the value here. Plus, with free shipping on all long guns at Wholesale Hunter, you're saving even more compared to driving to a big-box store.
Best for: Home defense, anyone who prioritizes smooth action, security-minded homeowners.
3. Savage 301: The Budget Turkey Slayer
Okay, hear us out on this one. Yes, it's a single-shot. But if you're turkey hunting or want an ultra-portable shotgun for the truck, the Savage 301 punches way above its weight class.
This thing is built like a tank. The receiver is solid, the break-open action is tight, and it patterns beautifully with turkey loads. Plus, at around $150-$175, you can pick one up and still have budget left over to stock up on shotgun shells. (Pro tip: grab 10+ boxes and save 5% with our bulk ammo discount.)
Single-shots aren't for everyone, but if you're a "one shot, one kill" kind of hunter or just want something simple and reliable, don't sleep on the 301.
Best for: Turkey hunters, minimalist outdoorsmen, anyone who wants maximum portability.
4. Stoeger P3000 Defense: Serious About Security
The P3000 Defense is what happens when a company known for quality decides to make an affordable home defense shotgun. It's got a solid, confidence-inspiring feel that some cheaper options just don't deliver.
The pump action is reliable, the build quality is a step up from the bottom-tier options, and it's designed specifically with defensive use in mind. You're getting ghost ring sights, a tactical-length barrel, and enough capacity to handle any home defense scenario.
At right around $300, it's at the top of our budget range, but worth every penny if home security is your primary concern.
Best for: Home defense, anyone who wants something that feels premium without the premium price.
5. Black Aces Tactical Pro Series: Tactical on a Budget
Want the tactical look and feel without dropping $700 on a Benelli? The Black Aces Tactical Pro Series delivers. This is a semi-auto 12-gauge that brings features you'd normally see on much pricier guns.
The gas operation is reliable, it looks mean, and it functions even better than it looks. While some budget semi-autos can be finicky with light loads, the Pro Series tends to eat everything reliably.
At right around $300, it's a steal for anyone who wants semi-automatic capability. And with Sezzle available at checkout, you can split it into 4 easy payments and start shooting now.
Best for: Tactical enthusiasts, anyone who wants semi-auto performance, competitive shooters on a budget.
6. Savage 320 Field: The Budget Hunter's Best Friend
This is the long-barrel sibling of the 320 Security we mentioned earlier. Same smooth action, same reliability, but with a 26-inch or 28-inch barrel that's perfect for hunting or hitting the clay range.
The longer barrel gives you better swing dynamics for moving targets, and the added weight up front helps reduce muzzle jump. Whether you're hunting dove, duck, or just having fun with some sporting clays, the 320 Field handles it all.
Under $250 in most cases, and you're getting a hunting shotgun that performs like guns twice the price. Browse our shotgun category to see what configurations we've got in stock.
Best for: Upland bird hunting, waterfowl, sporting clays, budget-conscious hunters.
7. Turkish Single Shots: The Truck Gun Champion
Okay, so we're cheating a little here by lumping a category together, but hear us out. Turkish imports like Yildiz and Iver Johnson make folding single-shot shotguns that are perfect for stashing in a truck, ATV, or tractor.
These aren't going to win any beauty contests, and they're definitely not heirlooms you'll pass down to your grandkids. But for $100-$150? They're perfect "beater guns" that you won't cry over if they get scratched, dusty, or banged around.
The folding feature makes them incredibly compact for storage, and they're simple enough that anyone can operate them safely. Great for teaching beginners, keeping varmints away from the property, or just having a no-frills option when you need one.
Best for: Truck guns, farm use, beginners, anyone who needs an ultra-budget backup gun.
Why Buy From Wholesale Hunter?
Look, you can find these shotguns at a lot of places. But here's why our customers keep coming back since 1998:
Free Shipping on Long Guns: Every shotgun we sell ships free. No minimum purchase, no games. That alone can save you $30-$50 compared to other retailers.
Buy Now, Pay Later: With Sezzle, you can split your purchase into 4 interest-free payments. Get your shotgun now, pay over time.
Bulk Ammo Savings: Planning to actually shoot that new shotgun? (We hope so.) Buy 10+ boxes of ammo and automatically save 5%. Stock up on 12-gauge shells or 20-gauge and stretch your budget even further.
The Bottom Line
You don't need to break the bank to get a reliable shotgun. The Maverick 88 and Stevens 320 are tried-and-true workhorses that'll serve you for decades. The Stoeger P3000 and Black Aces Tactical bring more features to the table if you've got a bit more budget. And options like the Savage 301 and Turkish single-shots prove that sometimes simple and affordable is exactly what you need.
We've been doing this since 1998, offering competitive wholesale pricing without the wholesale membership fees. Whether you're protecting your home, heading into the field, or just want a reliable scattergun for the farm, there's a sub-$300 option here that'll get the job done.
Got questions about any of these models? Want to know what we've got in stock right now? Check out our full shotgun selection or give us a shout. We're here to help you find the right gun for your needs and budget.
Now get out there and shoot something.